Ampersand's Travels...

Welcome to Ampersand's travel blog. This is where you'll find out all the latest goings on from our travels across Asia, Africa and the British Isles.

Our motto is that luxury is in the experience: watching tigers padding through the Kanha jungle in the company of an expert guide; camping out under the Ladakh stars wrapped in cashmere blankets; exploring the art galleries and fine dining restaurants in Cape Town; or explore the wild and ravishing highlands of Scotland... these are the things we adore.

All over Asia, Southern Africa and the British Isles – from Bhutan to Bali, Cape Town to Victoria Falls, Bath to Ballyvaughan – we know the most charming privately-owned hotels, the best secret beaches, the prettiest and castles, and the most exclusive safari trails in the untouched wilderness. Our Little Black Book contains the best textile buffs, the keenest foodies, the wittiest maharajas, the most expert guides and the loveliest spots to drink champagne in the moonlight.

But what we love most of all is revealing these treasures to our clients. In our blog we hope to inspire and inform you by providing the latest travel news, hotel openings and luxury holiday ideas across Asia, Southern Africa and the British Isles.

Ampersand’s Southeast Asia specialist, Simon, recently returned from an in-depth research trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, exploring all the new hotels which have opened up across the country...

Japan’s cherry blossom season is one of the most iconic times of year to visit, often cited as a symbol of the transient nature of life. Here you can read about the best hotspots in the height of the season, and the more unusual spots which will see you dodging the crowds…

By James Jayasundera, MD & Founder of Ampersand Travel: Japan is the first country I ever fell in love with. I remember the day it happened – I was 7, I was living in Rome and it was a scorching hot

Whether it be the scent of turmeric and cardamom slowly frying in ghee, or the sight of a bulky hessian sack in the bazaar topped with a precarious pyramid of precious saffron: India is all about the food. Or, more precisely, about the countless blends of exotic flavours that has captivated our taste buds.

Asia; home to noisy, vibrant cities, exciting markets, ancient cultures and some of the best beaches in the world. The dreamlike beach backdrops provide a landscape where old meets new, where cultures clash and where expert and budding surfers alike can grab their boards and head to one of these top surf spots in Asia...

Archive

So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka

Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India

Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!- Leslie Siben, India

I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.- Matthew Nicklin, North India

Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!- Mr David Wallace, North India

We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!- Jaime Benitez, South India

Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India

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